Outemu Silent White vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent White and the Akko V3 Piano Pro offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Outemu Silent White is a linear switch, noted for its smooth keystroke with minimal noise—ideal for those who favor a quiet typing experience without sacrificing fluidity. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro, also a linear switch, stands out with its long pole design that provides a snappy sound signature, enriching each keystroke with a lively, crisp quality. This switch combines its auditory charm with a smooth actuation, delivering a satisfying tactile experience that many users enjoy. Whether you prioritize a serene workspace or a more engaging auditory feedback while typing, both switches offer unique advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent White and Akko V3 Piano Pro switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, ultimately shaping their unique sound profiles. The Silent White boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, especially beneficial in setups where RGB lighting is a prominent feature. Its translucency not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also allows the lighting to shine through vibrantly, adding a visually engaging layer to the typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro showcases a nylon top housing, which embodies a classic switch material. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a rounder tonal quality that could appeal to users seeking a softer auditory experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Outemu Silent White and Akko V3 Piano Pro employ nylon, which is consistent between the two switches. This choice in material results in a similar sensation while typing, as both switches feature a softer base that absorbs sound and contributes to a subdued auditory experience when bottoming out. The deeper, fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing enhances the overall typing feedback, making this aspect a shared characteristic between the two models. This commonality ensures that users of either switch will enjoy a more muted and rounded sound upon keypress, regardless of the differing top housing materials.
The differences in top housing materials can lead to distinct overall sound profiles, but the nylon bottom housing of both switches introduces a level of similarity in feel and sound when the keys are pressed all the way down. Users who press the keys will experience the plush and absorbed sound signature from the nylon base, but the impression of the switches when releasing the keys will undoubtedly vary. The Silent White will generate a distinctive, crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top, while the V3 Piano Pro will maintain a warmer, more rounded sound from its nylon top housing. Thus, while they share the nylon bottom housing which contributes to their mid-range similarities, the experiences during actuation and release offer contrasting characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, both have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users will experience a similar resistance at the point of keystroke activation. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly; the Silent White switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches will feel equally easy to press initially, the Silent White switch will require slightly more force to fully depress, potentially resulting in a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a heavier feel. Conversely, the Akko V3 Piano Pro, being the lighter option overall with its lower bottom out force, would likely provide a more comfortable experience for those engaging in prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces the overall strain on the fingers.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we find that they differ slightly. The Silent White switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option, while the V3 Piano Pro features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is slightly longer. This difference in travel distance may influence user experience: those who prioritize quick response times, like gamers, might prefer the more responsive Silent White switch, whereas those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial key press may lean toward the V3 Piano Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and response characteristics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
The Outemu Silent White comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent White switch is not specifically characterized in available descriptions, which leaves its auditory profile somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its vibrant sound signature, featuring a clacky and resonant quality. This switch delivers a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke, resulting in a crisp, bright auditory experience. The percussive nature of the V3 Piano Pro enhances the overall typing atmosphere, making it particularly satisfying for users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent White switch lacks detailed descriptors, making it difficult to form a cohesive understanding of its tactile qualities. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro is lauded for its lively and enjoyable typing experience. It incorporates a bouncy feel, giving users a satisfying rebound upon keypress. In addition, its creamy and silky sensations contribute to a smooth and polished experience, which may be enhanced by factory lube or material choices. This combination of qualities allows for a seamless glide over keys, providing a refined typing feel that many users find appealing.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent White's qualities remain unclear, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch stands out for its engaging sound and tactile sensations. For newcomers, it's essential to consider that without specific feedback from Silent White users, one might not experience the same auditory joy or tactile satisfaction as with the V3 Piano Pro. However, if silence or a smoother keypress is a higher priority, the Silent White could provide a unique benefit despite its undefined attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches, your choice should depend primarily on your preference for tactile experience and sound profile. If you seek a quieter typing experience without any extra auditory feedback, the Silent White, with its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, is the ideal option. This switch is perfect for environments where noise could be a distraction, such as shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more lively and engaging typing experience, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches shine with their clacky sound, medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, and their smooth, bouncy feel. These switches are designed to provide a pop with every keystroke, making them great for those who enjoy a more dynamic auditory and tactile interaction while typing or gaming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you prioritize sound, feel, and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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